Guide to Becoming an Activist: Making Displays

Sections: Introduction Getting Started Information Stalls Making Displays Producing and Distributing Leaflets Starting a Group Public Speaking Lobbying Working With the Media Campaigning Fundraising Frequently Asked Questions and Comments

MAKING A POSTER DISPLAY

Animal rights posters, which you can get from PETA, will last a lot longer if you take the time to mount them as a display. To do this, glue the poster to a 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch sheet of plywood, and cover it with a sheet of clear, sticky-backed plastic.

LIBRARY DISPLAYS

A library display is an effective way to reach the public. Many libraries have display cases that nonprofit community groups can reserve on a weekly or monthly basis, but you may have to wait several months for the space to become available, so it’s vital to plan ahead. Call your local library and speak to the person in charge of the display cases. You’ll have a better chance of securing a spot if you represent a group. When you make your reservation, find out how large the display case is and ask any other questions that you may have. Be prepared to make changes to your display if the librarian objects to graphic material.

A display about cruelty-free shopping that includes a collage, a poster, a collection of cruelty-free products and some leaflets or newsletters is sure to get attention. Or put together a display about hunting, furs, animal experimentation, factory farming, vegetarianism or general animal rights, and include animal rights books from the library. If the pickings are slim, donate a few books – Animal Liberation and You Can Save the Animals are great choices. Whatever your subject matter, be sure that your group’s name and contact details are visible on the display.